In a statement issued on Friday evening, Ms Yates said: “Our beautiful little boy has gone, we are so proud of you Charlie.”

Prime Minister Theresa May said: “I am deeply saddened by the death of Charlie Gard. My thoughts and prayers are with Charlie’s parents Chris and Connie at this difficult time.”

Pope Francis tweeted: “I entrust little Charlie to the Father and pray for his parents and all those who loved him.”

GOSH said it sent its “heartfelt condolences” to Charlie’s parents and loved ones.

US Vice-President Mike Pence tweeted: “Saddened to hear of the passing of Charlie Gard. Karen & I offer our prayers & condolences to his loving parents during this difficult time.”

Image copyrightEPAImage caption Chris Gard and Connie Yates fought a five-month legal battle on behalf of their son

On Thursday, Ms Yates said the couple had been denied their “final wish” to have more time with him after a High Court judge ruled that he would be moved to a hospice and have his life support withdrawn soon after.

The couple had wanted to take their son to the US for nucleoside bypass therapy, but specialists at GOSH said the treatment was experimental and that Charlie had irreversible brain damage.